The weather Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has reported that the influence of western winds has become increasingly dominant across the western regions of Nepal, particularly in Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces, as well as in some western parts of Gandaki province. Meanwhile, the influence of the monsoon and local wind systems is gradually weakening in the rest of the country, marking a transitional phase in Nepal’s seasonal weather pattern.
Weakening Monsoon and the Onset of Western Winds
According to the DHM’s latest weather bulletin issued today, the southwestern monsoon, which has been active over Nepal for the past few months, is now losing its strength. As a result, western wind systems have begun to take a more prominent role in shaping weather conditions, especially in the country’s western and mid-western regions.
This transition is typical during the early days of October, as Nepal approaches the end of the monsoon season. The gradual shift in wind patterns signals the beginning of a post-monsoon phase, often characterized by clear skies, cooler mornings, and relatively dry weather conditions across most parts of the country.
Current Weather Conditions
The DHM stated that this afternoon, the weather is expected to remain partly cloudy in Koshi Province and across the hilly regions of the country, while mainly fair conditions will prevail in most parts of the Terai region. There remains a possibility of light rainfall at one or two places in the hilly regions of Koshi and Gandaki provinces. The department, however, noted that these showers are likely to be brief and scattered, without significant impact on daily life or travel.
In its forecast for tonight, the DHM predicts that the weather will continue to be partly cloudy in Koshi Province and the hilly areas of Gandaki, while the rest of the country will experience mostly clear skies.
Regional Weather Overview
In Koshi Province, residents can expect partly cloudy skies throughout the day, particularly in the hilly and mountainous belts. Occasional light rain may occur in isolated areas, though the lowlands and Terai are likely to remain mostly dry.
Gandaki Province will experience a similar pattern, with light rain forecast for select hilly regions, while other areas are expected to remain fair. The western parts of the province are under the influence of western winds, which may bring slightly cooler and drier air compared to previous weeks.
In contrast, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces are witnessing the strongest effects of western winds. These winds are bringing in drier and clearer conditions, a sign that the region is entering the post-monsoon phase earlier than the eastern parts of the country.
The Terai belt across most provinces, including Madhesh and Lumbini, is expected to remain mainly fair, with mild temperatures and low chances of rain. Farmers, particularly in western Nepal, are now preparing for harvest season, as the dry conditions become more favorable for post-monsoon agricultural activities.
Implications for Travel and Agriculture
With the monsoon gradually receding, weather-related disruptions such as landslides, heavy rainfall, and flash floods are now less likely to occur. This comes as a relief for residents and travelers in hilly and mountainous districts who faced frequent road blockages during the monsoon months. However, the DHM has advised travelers to remain cautious in some parts of the mid-hills, where isolated rainfall and residual soil moisture may still pose minor risks.
For the agricultural sector, the shift toward fair weather is beneficial for paddy harvesting and field preparation for winter crops. Farmers in western Nepal, particularly in Kailali, Banke, Bardiya, and Dang, have welcomed the clearer skies and stable weather after weeks of intermittent rainfall.
Transition Toward Post-Monsoon Season
Meteorologists note that Nepal is now approaching the end of the 2025 monsoon season, with the withdrawal process expected to complete within the next week or two. The decreasing monsoon activity and increasing influence of dry westerly winds are indicators of this seasonal change.
During this period, temperatures in the hills and mountains are expected to drop gradually, especially during the mornings and nights, while daytime temperatures in the Terai will remain warm and pleasant. Experts also highlight that as the monsoon retreats, air quality levels in urban areas may temporarily decline due to increased dust and pollution, urging residents to take necessary precautions.
Today’s forecast highlights the dominant impact of western winds across the western half of Nepal, while monsoon and local wind influence weakens elsewhere. The weather remains generally clear and dry, with only isolated light rainfall expected in the hilly regions of Koshi and Gandaki provinces.
The DHM’s outlook for the coming days suggests that fair weather will continue across most parts of the country, with gradual cooling temperatures marking the shift toward post-monsoon conditions. As Nepal transitions from a rainy monsoon to a drier autumn season, residents can look forward to more stable weather, clearer skies, and favorable conditions for travel and agriculture in the days ahead.
